LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Legendary NRL star Benji Marshall was right in the thick of the action during the wild celebrations at Wests Tigers after proving his critics wrong in spectacular fashion.
The Inner West Council might be looking to kick NRL matches out of Leichhardt Oval in the future, but after a thrilling performance from the Tigers in front of 15,990 passionate fans, it's clear that this iconic venue still has a special place in the game.
Written off after a tough loss in Canberra last week, Marshall's team responded in impressive style to give their rookie coach his first official NRL win, stunning the previously unbeaten Sharks with a resounding 32-6 victory.
The atmosphere at the stadium was electric, with fans erupting in joy as their team put on a show.
The coach then led the team in a rousing rendition of their new team song, a nod to the rich history of the Western Suburbs and Balmain clubs who came together 25 years ago to form the Tigers.
The fans, who may have paid a pretty penny for tickets, didn't mind one bit as they packed the hill, creating a noise and atmosphere that rivalled any major stadium.
Overall, it was a fairy tale night for the Tigers and their supporters, a moment that will be remembered for years to come in the annals of Rugby League history.